An investigation on the influences of Halil Rıfat Aydemir, a local artist from Emirdağ, on Turkish folk music and culture

Folk culture is the most fundamental phenomenon that distinguishes societies from each other and provides them with identity. As a result of globalization, societies that do not want to lose their essence in the face of popular cultures have had to hold on tightly to folk cultures. One of the most important elements in preventing folk culture from becoming alienated and eroded is local artists. The Republic of Turkey appears as a very rich country in terms of local artists. Within Turkey, the Emirdağ region has a special position, especially in the field of music. Folk songs originating from the region have become popular throughout Turkey. The biggest share in the survival of these folk songs to the present day belongs to local artists. In this study, Halil Rıfat Aydemir, who has a great share in the engraving of folk songs in the Emirdağ region into social memories, is discussed. Within the scope of the study, Halil Rıfat Aydemir's life, artistic adventure, the works he inspired, his compilations and compositions were researched. Within the scope of the thesis research, qualitative paradigm was used. In order to collect data, semi-structured interview questions were prepared and interviews were held with the artist. The data obtained was deciphered, edited and interpreted.